Luka Doncic Embraces Next Man Up Mentality For Lakers During LeBron James Absence

Luka Doncic mentioned he would not really feel compelled to do extra whereas LeBron James recovers from sciatica, emphasizing a team-first method because the Los Angeles Lakers navigate the veteran ahead’s anticipated three-to-four week absence.

Doncic addressed his function after apply Saturday, stating his focus stays on profitable no matter particular person statistics. The Lakers are 0-2 within the preseason with out each James and Doncic, shedding to Phoenix and Golden State.

„I do not view it that approach,“ Doncic mentioned. „I simply wish to play basketball. If I do much less, if I do extra, no matter it takes for me to get a win.“

JJ Redick mentioned it stays undetermined whether or not Doncic will play in Sunday’s preseason rematch towards the Golden State Warriors. Doncic will play in two of the Lakers‘ remaining 4 preseason video games because the group manages his workload.

Doncic was a full participant Saturday after having his workload modified all week. Doncic performed for Slovenia in EuroBasket this summer season, prompting the cautious method.

„I had [the] nationwide group,“ Doncic defined. „Enjoying one month or one thing of basketball [for Slovenia]. Clearly it is a lengthy season forward, so simply due to that.“

Redick faces uncertainty concerning the beginning lineup till James returns. Doncic, Austin Reaves and Deandre Ayton will occupy three spots, however the last two positions stay undecided.

Rui Hachimura began 57 of 59 video games final season and is into account. Jarred Vanderbilt has began each preseason video games and is the healthiest he has been for the reason that 2023 Western Convention finals.

Free agent signees Jake LaRavia and Marcus Good present extra choices. Good, sidelined with Achilles tendinopathy, will play towards the Warriors on Sunday, in keeping with Redick.

„It is a massive change,“ Doncic mentioned of enjoying with out James. „He is an incredible participant. He can assist us so much. However on the finish of the day, our mentality must be ’subsequent man up.'“